Johnathan Walton returns to KHOU 11 with new book

Johnathan Walton was a morning feature reporter for KHOU 11 in Houston during the first decade of the 2000s. Before his time in Houston, he worked at KABB in San Antonio on the segment "Walton's Window."

After leaving Houston, Walton moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in comedy, which eventually led to opportunities in television production. But the transition wasn’t easy.

"The mentality here is: If you don’t work in LA, you must not know anything," Walton told mikemcguff.com in 2009. "So even though I had 8 years of TV producing experience working at KHOU, KABB and WSVN, it meant nothing to the production companies here. So I had to start at the bottom as a PA… along with all the college kids. Luckily I was able to move up pretty quickly because I had one major advantage over all the college kids: 8 years of TV producing experience at KHOU, KABB and WSVN."

In 2021, Walton launched the iHeartMedia podcast “Queen of the Con: The Irish Heiress,” which chronicled his real-life experience of being scammed out of $100,000. 

The podcast’s success led to the release of his book, “Anatomy of a Con Artist: The 14 Red Flags to Spot Scammers, Grifters, and Thieves,” published in August 2025.

Forget features...Walton should be a consumer reporter now!

The book’s release brought Walton back to his broadcasting roots, reuniting him with former Channel 11 morning anchor colleague Deborah Duncan on Great Day Houston (with a surprise appearance by Ron Treviño). He also returned to his San Antonio ties with an appearance on News 4 WOAI, KABB’s sister station, along with numerous other media outlets nationwide.

Texas TV news and radio job moves August 2025

Send tips for the monthly Texas media job list here.

- Texas Radio Hall of Fame induction Class 2025
- 2025 Texas National Edward R. Murrow Award Winners
- 2025 NAB Marconi Radio Award Finalists Announced
- Nexstar enters into agreement to acquire TEGNA for $6.2 Billion in Accretive Transaction
- Texas TV outcome in Nexstar + TEGNA deal?
- 2025 Lone Star Regional Sports EMMY winners

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

The Dallas Morning News is expanding its business coverage, including a new 12-page Business Sunday section.

How WFAA’s archives helped bring Netflix’s new Cowboys documentary to life.

Chase Rogers starts covering Dallas police, fire and public safety for the Dallas Morning News.

Brian Scott signs a new agreement at Spectrum Dallas as an MMJ.

New Sports Museum Exhibition Bringing Joe Buck and Bob Costas to Dallas.

UT Dallas Loosens Ban on Student Newspaper Distribution.

North Texas Athletics and exclusive multimedia rights holder Mean Green Sports Properties announced a new radio home for Mean Green Football radio broadcasts in the Dallas-Fort Worth market on the iHeartMedia Dallas network. Beginning with the 2025 season opener, all Mean Green Football radio broadcasts will air live on Talk Radio 1190 KFXR AM for the entirety of the 2025 and 2026 football seasons.

- Julia Fife joins FOX 4 KDFW
- Fmr. DFW TV reporter Bryan Glazer recalls 1985 Delta 191 crash
- Gentry Little is the "Ace" of Texas high school sports broadcasting
- Mike Snyder recalls Flight 191 crash
- Blindfolded DFW anchor IDs french fries
- DFW anchor recalls almost chopper crash into prison
- Victory+, KDFW FOX 4, and KDFI More 27 Expand Partnership to Deliver More Dallas Stars Action for 2025-2026 Season
- Raquel Amparo leaves CBS News Texas KTVT
- Dale Hansen talks appearing in Netflix’s "America’s Team: The Gambler and His Cowboys" doc
- Dallas Stars NHL Games available outside DFW via Victory+ and Gray Media
- Two big Texas TV anchor anniversaries

HOUSTON

KPRC 2 Sports Director Randy Mcllvoy among Houston ISD Athletics Hall of Honor inductees.

Women to Watch: Erica Rico; 93Q Country, Houston.

KPRC anchor Keith Garvin all about faith, family, fairness.
-  Evening anchor Keith Garvin celebrates 13 years with KPRC 2.

Bold Faith On And Off Camera: DaLaun Dillard’s God Story.

From Swifties to Sports Fans, Houston Tuned In for Taylor on Audacy’s Mix 96.5.

Former ABC13 KTRK anchor Steven Romo has been named a Correspondent at NBC News. 

From Alief apartments to arenas and airwaves, Raheel Ramzanali’s path is a Houston story of hustle, representation, and resilience.

After nearly 30 years in Texas, Houston writer Chris Vognar says farewell.

KHOU 11 National Sales Manager Candi Craig adds KVUE Austin to her responsibilities. 

Patricia Sauceda and Keisean Marshall are both joining FOX 26 KRIV as producers.

Triple-A Sugar Land Space Cowboys media relations manager and play-by-play announcer Garrett Greene made his MLB debut calling the Houston Astros on SportsTalk790 alongside Robert Ford. 

Former Vice President of Programming for Audacy Houston, Melissa Chase, who oversaw programming efforts for 100.3 The Bull KILT, Mix 96.5 KHMX, and 95.7 The Spot KKHH, joins WRIC 8 Richmond, Virginia's expanded lifestyle show “Showcase.”

- FOX 26 Houston adds more news to digital
- Where is Mayra Moreno?
- Lauren Freeman interviewed by Houston Moms
- 93Q KKBQ Houston 1985 and 1989 airchecks
- Caroline Collins and other Texas TV folks getting injured
- Rodeo Radio 92.9 HD2 Houston replaces Country Legends
- Scott Flannigan Named Senior News Director; Edgar Zavala Named Senior Director of Technical Operations for Houston Public Media
- ABC13 Houston Class of 2026
- Nick Mantas joins KPRC 2 Houston
- Allison Gutleber joins CW39 Houston
- Seth Kovar leaves CW39 Houston
- Mayra Moreno earns Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Award
- Chris Huff rejoins 95.7 The Spot, Mix 96.5 and 100.3 The Bull in Houston
- Katelyn Maida guest announces for Grand Ole Opry
- Angie Rodriguez joins FOX 26 Houston
- Peyton Galyean joins FOX 26 Houston
- Ari Alexander leaves KPRC 2 Houston
- Tan Radford joins FOX 26 Houston

SAN ANTONIO

Morning anchor Audrey Castoreno celebrates 10 years with KENS 5.

Dan Weiss Named New Radio Voice Of The San Antonio Spurs.

Former San Antonio reporter joins castaways on 'Survivor' Season 49.

San Antonio TV personalities share their go-to Whataburger orders.

- Steve Spriester to leave KSAT 12 San Antonio
- Goldberg arm wrestles KSAT 12 anchors, eats crickets
- Steve Spriester signs-off KSAT 12 San Antonio

AUSTIN

Reporters Farrah Walton and Abigail Velez swap schedules at CBS Austin KEYE.

Meteorologist Avery Tomasco celebrates 8 years with CBS Austin KEYE.

Dave Froehlich signed a new agreement to stay as FOX 7 KTBC morning anchor.

Karla Leal renews her agreement as an MMJ/anchor at Spectrum Austin.

- Alec Nolan joins FOX 7 Austin
- TV anchors guess is it name-brand or HEB?
- Chelsey Khan leaves "We are Austin"
- Sally Hernandez celebrates 25 years at KXAN Austin

AROUND TEXAS

Don Brubaker celebrates 41 Years at 25 News Now KAVU Victoria.

Texas A&M Athletics Ups Its Game With Cameras From Grass Valley.

KRGV 5 Rio Grande Valley reporter Christian Von Preysing leaves to become a Massachusetts Institute of Technology Knight Science Journalism Fellow.

Storm Search 7 Chief Meteorologist Corbin Voges celebrates six years at ABC 7 Amarillo KVII.

Jenna Elique joins the Spectrum News 1 North Carolina sports team.

Kamryn Mendoza leaves KAMC Lubbock for FOX 2 and KPLR 11 St. Louis, Missouri.

Jordan Salas joins KFOX14 Morning News El Paso as a reporter.

Sean Bellafiore continues as morning weekday meteorologist with a new deal at KWTX Waco-Temple-Killeen.

- Zach Fox joins WTOC 11 Savannah, Georgia
- Brianna Brown joins News 9 KWTV Oklahoma City
- Lauren Tear joins WFMY News 2 Greensboro
- Clemente Morales leaves Abilene Today on KRBC and KTAB
- Alex Cammarata leaves NewsWest 9 KWES Midland-Odessa
- Nasya Mancini joins KSNV News 3 Las Vegas
- TX TV anchors welcome first child and more
- Bob Hallmark retires from KLTV Tyler after 30 years
- Jonathan Polasek joins KTBX Bryan-College Station
- Mark Rowlett leaves KTXS Abilene

Steve Spriester signs-off KSAT 12 San Antonio

KSAT 12 San Antonio did a nice send-off to its 30-year anchor Steve Spriester on Wednesday night, complete with extended interviews with co-anchor Myra Arthur and GMSA anchor Ernie Zuniga.

Arthur called her Spriester interview "simultaneously the easiest, yet hardest, interview I’ve ever done."

- KSAT's Steve Spriester featured in Future's “High Off Life”
- Steve Spriester knighted!
- Nick Mantas joins KPRC 2 Houston

Nick Mantas joins KPRC 2 Houston

Nick Mantas is joining KPRC 2 Houston as a sports anchor/reporter from Graham Media Group's sister station, KSAT 12 San Antonio.  He leaves KSAT on August 29, 2025, joining KPRC on September 2nd.

UPDATE
Ari Alexander leaves KPRC 2 Houston

RELATED
- Chancellor Johnson leaves KPRC 2 Houston
- Former KPRC reporter named KSAT news director

Mantas joined the KSAT 12 Sports team in 2023. 

Before stepping into his role in San Antonio, Nick freelanced as a sports reporter in the Alamo City and anchored sports updates for iHeart Radio, where his reports reached audiences in 18 cities across the country.

He came to Texas from Lansing, Michigan, where he spent three years as a weekend sports anchor and reporter at WLNS 6 News.  His work contributed to the WLNS sports team earning multiple honors, including the Michigan Association of Broadcasters’ Best Sports Award (2020, 2021) and the Associated Press of Michigan’s Best Sports Coverage (2020, 2021), as well as the Best Sports Broadcast (2022) for their Friday night football shows.

Before heading north, Mantas got his start in Abilene at KTXS as a weekend sports anchor/reporter.

Mantas earned his master’s degree in Sports Media from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism and his bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Arizona. 

While at Arizona, he worked as a strength and conditioning coach with multiple teams, training athletes who went on to play in the NFL, NBA, and on the professional volleyball circuit. He later continued coaching at the University of San Francisco before transitioning into TV production with the Pac-12 Network, where he worked behind the scenes as a replay operator, stage manager, and camera operator before pursuing his on-camera career.

Thank you, San Antonio! My last day at KSAT will be August 29th.

It was a pleasure sharing your unique stories and some incredible memories.

I’ve accepted the Sports Anchor/Reporter position at KPRC 2 in Houston and can’t wait to get started on September 2nd! 🤠🏈 pic.twitter.com/osUiB7hXRp

— KSAT Nick Mantas (@KSATNick) August 19, 2025

 

2025 Texas National Edward R. Murrow Award Winners

The Radio Television Digital News Association announced the national winners of the 2025 Edward R. Murrow Awards. 

SEE THE FULL LIST OF WINNERS

Here are the Texas winners:

Excellence in Innovation
A Hanging on Backbone Creek: Unraveling Texas' antiquated death investigations
KXAN
Austin, TX 

The mysterious death of 13-year-old Daynon Lewis haunts the town of Marble Falls, TX, nearly 60 years after her body was discovered hanging in a shed behind her family’s home. Quickly ruled an accidental strangulation by a local justice of the peace, questions linger about this case and others nearby. KXAN’s reporting exposed an antiquated process still used in most Texas counties that gives certain elected officials the power to determine cause and manner of death with scant training and often without autopsies or forensic expertise.

During KXAN’s reporting, Texas lawmakers resumed their efforts to modernize this dubious system and initiated a fresh review of Miss Lewis’s case.

https://www.kxan.com/backbone-creek/

“The national Edward R. Murrow award won by KXAN-TV highlights the work of our journalists across the company and their commitment to innovation in storytelling, trusted broadcast journalism, exceptional public service, and community involvement,” said Andrew Alford, President of Nexstar’s broadcasting division. “We are honored and grateful to the RTDNA for recognizing KXAN-TV.”

Excellence in Writing
I Need a Last Line
WFAA
Dallas, TX 

Jjournalist Jobin Panicker showcases the power of strategic storytelling across diverse narrative formats. Each piece takes a different approach, from in-depth features developed over several days to same-day breaking news that requires tight, clear reporting.

Hard News
Austin airport is getting new runway safety tech that could have prevented near-miss
KUT
Austin, TX 

Newscast
Texas Public Radio's Morning Edition
Texas Public Radio
San Antonio, TX 

Hard News
In West Texas, rural sheriffs may not enforce state’s controversial new immigration law
Marfa Public Radio
Marfa, TX 

Breaking News Coverage
Biden steps down — Harris steps up
The 19th
Austin, TX

Goldberg arm wrestles KSAT 12 anchors, eats crickets

Goldberg recently wrestled in his WWE retirement match, but before he was in the Saturday Night's Main Event premium live event, the superstar visited KSAT 12 San Antonio, where he arm wrestled the news anchors and even ate some crickets.  

Turns out, wrestling legend lives in the Texas Hill Country.

Steve Spriester to leave KSAT 12 San Antonio

Steve Spriester is stepping away from the KSAT12 San Antonio anchor desk after more than 30 years.

UPDATE VIDEO:  Steve Spriester signs-off KSAT 12 San Antonio

His final broadcast at KSAT12 will be on August 27, 2025.

“It hasn’t been an easy decision to step away after all these years at KSAT12. The station has been my home, and I’m grateful for the support I’ve received,” Spriester said. “But it’s time for the next chapter. I am deeply thankful to the viewers and the community who have welcomed me into their homes, engaged with me on a personal level, and made San Antonio a better place.”

Spriester will be joining Perfected Claims, a legal advocacy firm, as head of strategic communications. 

Since joining KSAT in 1995, Spriester has anchored coverage of five Spurs NBA championships, the NBA All-Star Game, numerous Fiesta celebrations, presidential conventions, devastating floods, and tragic events such as the Uvalde and Sutherland Springs shootings. He also created impactful community-focused projects like Know My Neighborhood and Spriester Sessions, highlighting voices across San Antonio.

Spriester began at KSAT12 as a general assignment reporter, quickly rising to weekend anchor in 1996, then 6 p.m. anchor and investigative reporter in 1998. Since 2000, he’s anchored KSAT’s 5 p.m., 6 p.m., and The Nightbeat. His work has earned him three Lone Star Emmy Awards, two Telly Awards, and honors from the Texas Associated Press.

“Steve has been a cornerstone of San Antonio’s media landscape for over three decades. But beyond the headlines, he’s built deep relationships, listened to his community, and shared stories that have resonated with viewers,” said Ashley Parker, vice president and general manager of KSAT12. “While we’ll miss seeing him on the air, we are thrilled for Steve’s next chapter.”

Texas TV news and radio job moves July 2025

 

Send tips for the monthly Texas media job list here.

- Texas Radio Hall of Fame names 5 Lonestar legacies as voting opens for 2025 induction class
- Big Texas TV July anniversaries!
- Lone Star Sports EMMY Silver Circle Inductees 2005

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

The Musers: The Podcast has joined the Cumulus Podcast Network. The Musers, featuring hosts George Dunham, Craig Miller, and Gordon Keith, is the longest-running morning show (with the same crew) in Dallas-Fort Worth radio history. The show airs Monday – Friday on Cumulus Media’s The Ticket (KTCK-FM/KTCK-AM) and has been the top-rated show in the market since 1995.

Dallas Morning News appoints Colleen McCain Nelson as executive editor.

Phil McGraw’s Merit Street Media Files for Bankruptcy, Sues Distribution Partner Trinity Broadcasting.

“New Country 96.3” KSCS Dallas afternoon host Al Farb is married.

‘New Country 96.3’ Turns Listener Texts Into Full Song.

New Country 96.3’s 2nd Annual Diaper Drive Collects Over 28,000 Diapers for Cook Children’s. 

- Mariel Ruiz announces breast cancer diagnosis
- Enrique Teutelo leaves Telemundo 39 DFW
- Dallas Morning News Sold to Hearst; now Hearst covers most big Texas cities
- Dylan Federico leaves FOX 4 KDFW
- Dallas Morning News has another bidder
- Remembering Kidd Kraddick

HOUSTON

Houston Astros owner Jim Crane and Drayton McLane settle long-running dispute over failed TV network.

How Rowdy Yates Turned a Setback Into 180 Stations And A Hall Of Fame Nod.

Evan Mintz is the new editor of opinion and community engagement for the Houston Chronicle.

Scott Braddock leaves the Houston Chronicle's Texas Take podcast. Houston Chronicle state politics reporter Jeremy Wallace remains as host.

KPRC 2’s Gage Goulding to recap award-winning Derecho coverage on Discovery’s ‘In The Eye Of The Storm’

Josh Innes Rolls Back Onto Detroit’s Wheels.

KPRC 2 Houston Life supervising producer Heather Kansteiner won Graham Media Group's employee of the year award. 

Former Audacy Houston VP/Programming Bruce Logan returns as Brand Manager for 95.7 The Spot KKHH and 100.3 The Bull KILT.

Sandy Weinmann selected as KPFT General Manager.

Schedule changes at KPFT beginning in July.

Gina Larson leaves ABC13 KTRK where she served as Sr. Manager, Digital Platforms.

FOX 26 KRIV's Sasha Armstrong joins FOX 11 Los Angeles as Executive Producer of Good Day L.A.

Keisean Marshall joins FOX 26 KRIV's The Isiah Factor Uncensored as a producer.

Beth Peak joins KPRC 2 as a photographer/producer.

- MIX 96.5 KHMX Houston cuts
- Daji Aswad is engaged
- Ozzy Osbourne and KLOL Houston go way back
- ‘Runaway Radio’ screening at River Oaks Theatre 10-1-2025
- Griff’s Irish Pub’s 101 KLOL Montrose connection
- 101 KLOL 1987 4th annual Rock N’ Roll Auction
- K101 1986 3rd Annual Rock N’ Roll Auction
- Courtney Carpenter gives birth
- Fmr. Houston TV reporter's sons survived Central Texas flooding
- HEART & HUSTLE: HOUSTON Premieres August 2 on OWN
- SportsRadio 610 Raised $27,240 Benefitting the Houston Food Bank During Inaugural “Reggie and Ron Radiothon”
- Where is Shelby Rose?
- Ilona Carson joins KHOU 11 Houston
- ABC13 Houston set changes?
- Sarah Al-Shaikh joins ABC13 Houston
- Audacy Houston Announces New Brand Leadership Updates
- DaLaun Dillard is finished saying what he doesn't like after the pickle lemonade taste test
- Will Kunkel revives 'Kickin' it with Kunkel' and more
- Anna Werner Joins Gray’s InvestigateTV
- Real Investment Show with Lance Roberts goes podcast-only
- John Dawson evacuated in Maui during tsunami warning
 

SAN ANTONIO

KSAT anchor goes viral for 'speaking the truth' about Texas leaders.

Legendary San Antonio journalist Elaine Ayala reveals retirement.

- Emma Allen joins News 4 San Antonio and Fox SA
- Former KPRC reporter named KSAT news director

AUSTIN

Texas Monthly senior editor Aaron Parsley wrote about his experience with his family during the July 4th floods while on the Guadalupe River.

Executive Editorial Elevation For KUT’s Corrie MacLaggan.

Trevor Scott celebrates 12 years with CBS Austin KEYE.

- Lauren Rangel leaves FOX 7 Austin
- Tan Radford leaves FOX 7 Austin
- Marc Mullins joins KVUE Austin
- Noah Gross is the KXAN weekend sports anchor
- KXAN Austin gets new control room
- Allison Martinez joins KVUE Austin
- Tatjana Deegan promoted to Audacy Austin Senior VP and Market Manager
- Amanda Ruiz joins FOX 35 Orlando

AROUND TEXAS

25 News Now KAVU Victoria news director James Munoz celebrates eight years with the station.

KCEN Waco-Temple-Killeen's Texas Today on 6+ continues weekdays from 7 to 9 a.m.

Taylor Brooks joins KXII 12 Sherman as a reporter.

B93 KZBT Midland added Tino Cochino Radio for mornings.

KFDM 6 News Beaumont was awarded Television Station of the Year at the Southeast Texas Visionary Awards.

Longtime NewsWest 9 KWES anchor Crystal Crews receives proclamation from City of Odessa.

Reporter/MMJ Erin Holly leaves KRIS 6 Corpus Christi.

Matt Mosley leaves AM 1660 & 92.3 FM Waco for Rogue Media Network.

- Darrell Franklin signs off as KFDX Wichita Falls anchor
- Sara Blue leaves CBS19 KYTX; Joel Robinson takes over
- Oriana Bottaro leaves; Cristina Rodda takes over at KTSM 9 El Paso
- KBTX News BCS gets new graphics and music
- Adrian Carbajal joins KCEN 6 Waco
- Stevie Stephenson joins KCTV First Warn 5 Weather Team
- Alex Porter promoted to KTEN anchor
- 'The Ann Harder Show' launches in Waco
- Annabelle Tuggle leaves KETK and FOX51 East Texas
- Mark Garcia named NBC23 KVEO and CBS 4 GM
- Don Brubaker returns to 25 News Now Victoria
- Jonathan Munson named KIII Corpus Christi ND
- Gray Media acquires FOX34 KJTV Lubbock and Georgia station
- Noticias RGV ends operations on KRGV 5
- Bill Churchwell promoted to KIII weekend evening anchor

REMEMBERING

- Robert “Bob” M. Stein, longtime Rice political scientist and KHOU 11 analyst, dies at 75
- RADIO ONLINE Co-Founder Lisa Chase Dies at 67
- John Getter, former KHOU 11 reporter, passes away

Former KPRC reporter named KSAT news director

Jace Larson left the KPRC 2 Houston investigative team in 2016, but returns to Texas at Graham Media Group's sister station, KSAT 12 San Antonio, as news director, according to his X profile and as first reported by Rick Gevers.

He takes the role of Mario Orellana, who left the KSAT ND role for a GMG corporate role in April.

Larson has recently served as News Director at FOX17 WXMI Grand Rapids, Michigan, a role he assumed in November 2024.

Previously, Larson served as Director of Newsgathering at Scripps News from February 2022 to November 2024. Based in Denver, he led a national reporting team at the 24/7 live news network.

From August 2019 to February 2022, Larson was Director of National Content for local stations within the E.W. Scripps Company. 

Between 2016 and 2019, Larson served as a National Investigative Reporter. He produced investigative stories for both national distribution and Denver7 KMGH, earning multiple Emmy Awards for his work.

Larson’s previous role was as an Investigative Reporter at KPRC in Houston from 2013 to 2016.

According to his KPRC bio, which is still online, at the time, Larson had already earned a Columbia DuPont Award, Emmy Awards, and an Edward R. Murrow regional award. 

From 2007 to 2013, Larson was an Investigative Reporter at 9NEWS KUSA Denver. 

Earlier in his career, Larson served as an Investigative Reporter and Unit Executive Producer at FOX23/KOKI Tulsa, Oklahoma, from 2003 to 2007. 

Larson began his career at WGEM Quincy, Illinois, where he worked as a general assignment reporter before serving as the morning anchor from 2000 to 2003.

He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication from Principia College in 2000.

While we are talking Graham changes, another former Texan is moving up in the organization.  WKMG News 6 Orlando Manager of Content and Coverage Erik Sandoval announced he is the new Director of Storytelling for the entire Graham Media Group of stations.

Back in the late 1990s, Erik Rinderle, as he was known on-air, was an anchor at KWTX 10 Waco-Temple-Killeen. Rick Bradfield would be proud.

Big Texas TV July anniversaries!

Steve Spriester walked through the doors of KSAT 12 San Antonio on July 23, 1995 to begin a new job as a general assignments reporter which means the anchor is celebrating 30 years at the station.

KPRC 2 investigative reporter Robert Arnold is celebrating 25 years with the station!

Barbi Leo celebrates her 20th anniversary as co-host of Domingo Live, KIII News3 Corpus Christi's long-running Sunday morning Tejano music show.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Barbi Leo (@barbi_leo)

 

ABC13 Houston chief meteorologist Travis Herzog celebrates his 19th anniversary with the KTRK.

UPDATE AFTER ORIGINAL POSTING

News 4 San Antonio WOAI morning anchor David Chancellor celebrates 25 years.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mariza Mendoza (@marizamendozatv)

Kristina De Leon celebrates 20 years with News 4 San Antonio WOAI.

Texas Radio Hall of Fame names 5 Lonestar legacies as voting opens for 2025 induction class

Voting members to select twenty from field of fifty nominees starting July 24th

 (Houston, TX) July 24, 2025: The Texas Radio Hall of Fame (TRHOF) has released the names of the fifty (50) nominees for its 2025 Induction Class. The voting portal will be open and accessible to voting members via www.TRHOF.net through midnight on Thursday, August 7, 2025.

- Texas Radio Hall of Fame 2024 induction ceremony recap

As a prelude to the final balloting, the TRHOF has identified five (5) broadcast legends who will be concurrently inducted as Lonestar Legacies in a new category designed to honor the achievements of broadcasters who have passed away.

TRHOF Executive Director Doug Harris notes the importance of this recognition and the challenge of keeping the names of these remarkable broadcasters fresh in the minds of its members.

“With the passing of each year,” observes Harris, “the voting membership’s familiarity with some of the most accomplished and influential figures in Texas Radio history, fades a bit more. Our Lonestar Legacies, selected by an ad hoc committee of TRHOF board members and advisors from our 2025 submissions, have earned their rightful place on the diadem of our Hall of Fame crown.”

The 2025 Lonestar Legacy inductees are:

Alberto Alegre Calvo

Randy Lemmon

Gary Mason (Aycock)

Susan O’Donnell

Tom Perryman

Voting members will still have the opportunity to select twenty (20) additional 2025 inductees by reviewing their names, bios, and photos through the voting portal on the TRHOF website.

This year, over160 broadcast professionals with ties to Texas radio were nominated for consideration by the TRHOF’s Internal Review Committee, who independently made their recommendations on the final fifty. Voting members of the TRHOF will now determine the twenty individuals who will be honored on November 1, 2025, during the TRHOF’s Annual Induction Ceremony at the Texas Broadcast Museum in Kilgore, TX. 

The finalists eligible for consideration are, in alphabetical order:

John Breland

Raul Brindis

John Butler

Bill Coates

Steve Coffman

Chuck Conrad

Jay Cresswell

Diane Day

Kevin Dorsey

Paris Eley

Jason & Jan Fritz

John Frost

Steven “Rex” Gabriel

Bruce Gilbert

Clay/Gishelle Gish

Mark Grubbs

Henrietta Hernandez

Jay Howard

Joe Izbrand

JoJo & Patches

Chris Kelley

Terry King

Bob Lewis aka “Tumbleweed Smith”

Gentry “Ace” Little

Harrold Mann

Jeff McClain

Donnie Meals

John “The Lama” Oakes

Curtis Pierce Jr.

Brian Purdy

Jerry “The Car Pro” Reynolds

Tom Richards

Chrissie Roberts

Ken Roberts

Mike Roberts

Woody Roberts

Steve Robison

JD Rose

Ken Rush

Rod Ryan

Nathan Safir

Gary Saunders

Ray Schilens

Dr. J. Thomas Smith

William “Chilly Bill” Smith

Dave South

Starlene Stringer

Rudy Trevino

Tom Tynan

Gary “Blue Eyes” Walker

“Once again, we have an impressive slate of nominees, spotlighting the depth and breadth of Texas Radio talent,” says Harris. “From the tower to the studio to the conference room, this list embraces a variety of markets and formats with virtually every position of service in the broadcast world represented.” 

Details of the TRHOF’s annual Radio Reunion and Induction weekend are available on the organization’s website, along with information on becoming a voting member. Interested parties may still join—and vote—in this year’s selection.

(This post was taken from a release sent to me by the TRHOF)

Emma Allen joins News 4 San Antonio and Fox SA

Emma Allen has joined the San Antonio duopoly of News 4 San Antonio WOAI and FOX SA KABB as the new Morning Live Desk Anchor.

Ashley Sutton was the live desk anchor before moving into the FOX SA morning anchor role.

Allen makes the move from KATV 7 Little Rock, Arkansas — a fellow Sinclair Broadcast Group station — where she served as a reporter and weekend producer since August 2022.

A native of Helena, Arkansas, Allen first discovered her passion for broadcasting in high school while working at KJIW 94.5 FM. She later completed her degree at Arkansas State University in just three years while interning with KATV.

Her work earned top honors from the Arkansas College Media Association in 2022, and she was named Miss Congeniality at the Miss Arkansas State University Scholarship Pageant that same year.

Currently, Allen is expanding her expertise by pursuing a degree in broadcast meteorology from Mississippi State University.

Texas TV news and radio job moves June 2025

Send tips for the monthly Texas media job list here.

- 2025 Lone Star Regional Sports EMMY Nominees

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

40 more employees laid off from Dr. Phil's North Texas-based TV network amid 'summer hiatus': Officials.

DeDe McGuire 104 KKDA Dallas’ “DeDe In The Morning” is inducted as a member of the 2025 induction class of the Radio Hall of Fame.

Dale Hansen's hot takes are back in North Texas on new podcast.

Former “99.5 The Wolf” KPLX DJ Lisa Taylor announced she's retiring from full-time work in radio after a 45 year career.

99.5 The Wolf KPLX adds Vicki Ochoa for nights.

Former Fort Worth radio host sentenced to jail after violating probation.

Cumulus DFW’s New Country 96.3 Morning Show Raises More Than $30,000 for Patriot PAWS Service Dogs Through 5th Annual “Pet for a Vet” Campaign.

- Sydney Persing joins FOX 5 DC
- McKenna King promoted to CBS News Texas First Alert Chief Meteorologist
- Pete Delkus surprised by former WFAA anchor on his 20th anniversary
- Light fixture falls during FOX 4 KDFW newscast
- Dale Hansen surprises Pete Delkus for his 20th anniversary at WFAA
- Dominique Sachse and Vic Mignogna celebrate one year anniversary
- CBS Texas launches Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality (AR/VR) technology-driven studio
- Lauren Bostwick officially joins CBS Texas

HOUSTON

Melissa Chase exits Audacy Houston.

Jay Michaels exits MIX 96.5 KHMX.

Jennifer Radcliffe named Houston Chronicle’s new local news editor.

Houston Chronicle named 2024 Newsroom of the year by TME.

Houston Chronicle photographer/videographer Yi-Chin Lee leaves the Houston Chronicle to work for Reuters.

Houston Texans TV host Drew Dougherty joins Strake Jesuit as director of its student TV station.

Wes Wilson joins Chron.com as executive editor from KIII 3News Corpus Christi where he was news director.

Erica Cheng joins Houstonia as News & City Life Editor.

Hope Media Group, owner of 89.3 KSBJ and “Way-FM” network, and “Vida Unida," acquires the “Worship 24/7” network.

Raúl Brindis Joins AIRE Radio Networks for National Syndication.

Longtime meteorologist Frank Billingsley selling Houston home for $1.52 million.

Former KHOU 11 assistant news director Chris Henao joins the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) as Chief of Media & Communications.

93Q Houston’s Riggs, Katelyn & Erica mark 500 Shows.

Christian Lagera joins the KPRC 2 marketing team.

Producer David Langham returns to KPRC 2 after a brief stint at the Graham Media Group station in Orlando.

Producer Sydney Wallace returns to KPRC 2 where she interned after working in Oklahoma City.

Claudio Mendrano joins KPRC as a director from CW39 KIAH.

- No one can stop their dancing now
- 610 KILT Houston 1968, 1972 and 1973 audio
- Behind the scenes tour of FOX 26 Houston
- Will Kunkel exits FOX 26 Houston
- José Griñán's memorial service
- Where is Jonathan Novack?
- Former Houston TV reporter's vehicle damaged in LA
- Mayra Moreno defends "Buenas Noches" sign off
- KHOU is trying to win the ratings by a hair
- KHOU 11 adds new morning newscast on streaming
- 'Dean and Rog' launch YouTube channel with Birthday Scams
- Could KPRC 2 open a coffee shop?
- Melanie Lawson returns to ABC13 anchor desk
- Rekha Muddaraj returns to Houston TV
- Melanie Lawson talks knowing Beyoncé over the years
- Houston TV has some big June anniversaries!

SAN ANTONIO

Following his exit from 1200 WOAI last year, the “Joe Pags Show” with Joe Pagliarulo returns to 550 KTSA/107.1 K296GK.

104.5 Latino Hits KZEP replaces “Enrique Santos Show” with the “Tino Cochino Radio."

Anchor Deborah Knapp honored at Commissioners Court meeting.

- KENS 5's Sarah Duran talks growing up in a journalism family
- Orlando Peña Aurquia joins Telemundo 48 San Jose
- San Antonio TV anchor celebrity doppelgängers
- Stephanie Serna on how she landed her first job
- KENS 5 San Antonio launches expanded morning news on digital
- Andrew Capasso leaves FOX SA mornings

AUSTIN

Josh Hinkle, duPont Award-winning director of investigations and innovation for KXAN, is the new president of the Investigative Reporters and Editors Board of Directors. 

101X KROX celebrates 30 years.

City Council endorses public broadcasting by creating Austin PBS Day.

Matt Fernandez joins WBTV 3 Charlotte, North Carolina, as a reporter after leaving KVUE.

KXAN anchor Will DuPree celebrates seven years working in Austin. 

Texas Monthly Takes Home Eight National City and Regional Magazine Awards.

Paul Cobler joins the Texas Tribune as economy and industry reporter.

- Ryan Chandler is trying to save lives
- Rebecca Thomas leaves FOX 7 Austin
- Casey Claiborne leaves FOX 7 Austin
- Kristen Currie fills in on CW39 Houston
- Michael Courier joins KVUE Austin

AROUND TEXAS

“Wild 104.3” KQFX Borger/Amarillo now simulcasts Regional Mexican “96.1 La Poderosa” KBEX; format flipped during live remote for a Salvation Army sock drive.

Jeydah Jenkins joins KRIS 6 Corpus as neighborhood news reporter.

Derrick Jones joins 12News KBMT Beaumont as a reporter.

Cloud-Based Workflow Speeds KTXS’s Recovery From Downed Tower, Storm Damage.

Newsmakers announced, Southeast Texas media honored at 34th Excellence in the Media Awards.

Hundreds of KFDM News tapes from the 70s and 80s being digitized for public viewing.

KWTX 10 Waco Chief Engineer Larry Brown retires after 46 years of service!

Daniela Taboada-Palau joins 12News KBMT Beaumont.

Brianna Brown leaves KTEN Sherman to join News 9 KWTV Oklahoma City as a reporter.

Brady Taylor marks 20 years as a KWTX Meteorologist.

KBTX BCS Chief Meteorologist Max Crawford celebrates 10 years.

KBTX BCS evening anchor Rusty Surette celebrates 10 years.

KTEN Sherman morning meteorologist Amber Nowaski celebrates six years.

25 News KXXV/KRHD Waco/Bryan Morning/Midday Meteorologist Josh Johns celebrates six years.

Caroline Fletcher of KXII 12 Sherman celebrates five years. 

‘The Bo Corona Show’ Comes To Tejano Q99.5 San Angelo.

KIII 3 News Corpus Christi Multimedia Journalist Madeline Salinas left the station.

Mark Baugh joins KFOX 14 El Paso as morning reporter.

- Joel Robinson joins KYTX CBS19 East Texas
- Shalayna Valencia named KOSA Odessa GM
- KTXS 12 Abilene hiring spree
- Rudy Mireles joins ValleyCentral+ as digital anchor
- Natasha Williams named NewsWest 9 news director
- Noemy Sanchez leaves KTRE East Texas
- Cam Sanderson named KFDM/FOX4 Beaumont weekend sports anchor
- Jeremiah Stewart joins Fox West Texas
- Bob Brackeen calls it a career at KTEN Sherman
- Tara Thomas joins ABC Big 2 Midland-Odessa
- Faith Colbert joins KCEN 6 Waco

REMEMBERING

Former KTRK 13 photographer George Darrell Sauer ("Buddy"), 88, passed away.

Evans Risher, a beloved longtime WFAA photojournalist, has died at 68, his family announced.

Radio host, former congressman Blake Farenthold died.

Andrew Capasso leaves FOX SA mornings

Andrew Capasso is leaving "FOX SA, Puro San Antonio" KABB, where he debuted as morning co-anchor alongside Ashley Sutton on December 11, 2023.

In a Facebook post, Capasso explained:

"Family is everything.  Unfortunately, it took my wife’s cancer diagnosis for me to truly understand that.

I’ve decided to leave San Antonio and, at least for now, press pause on my 20-year career in TV news. Our family needs time to heal from a very difficult 2 years and they’re getting all of me to start that process.

A huge thank you to everyone I’ve worked with in San Antonio.  From Ashley and Brad who were forced to tolerate my dad jokes, producer Vivian who always checks on me, and my bosses who have been so understanding and caring.  

And thank you to everyone who’s watched each morning.  It makes getting up at 2am worth it  

I have a few more weeks with you on TV  I’ll share more soon about what’s next.

Thank you!"

Capasso stepped into the role following the departure of longtime anchor Ernie Zuniga from FOX 29 in May 2023.

Before coming to San Antonio, Capasso was a morning anchor and reporter for KOLD News 13 and FOX 11 KMSB in Tucson, Arizona, where he worked since 2015.

His previous experience also includes anchor and reporter positions at:

- First Coast News WTLV-WJXX in Jacksonville, Florida

- WVLA NBC Local 33 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana (also as a producer)

- WTAJ News in Altoona, Pennsylvania

- NBC Montana KTVM (as a bureau reporter)

Capasso holds degrees from both The Pennsylvania State University and Eastern Connecticut State University.

KENS 5 San Antonio launches expanded morning news on digital

KENS 5 San Antonio is the latest Texas station to add extended morning news to its digital lineup starting Monday, June 30, 2025.  

KENS 5 News airs on TV mornings from 4:30 a.m. to 7 a.m., followed by a new digital newscast from 7 to 8 a.m. on KENS 5+ with the same anchor team of Audrey Castoreno, Barry Davis, Paul Mireles, and Sarah Duran!

The same day, KHOU 11 Houston is also expanding its morning news on digital from 7 to 9 a.m. via KHOU 11+.

TEGNA announced an increase in newscast offerings for its station group in early June.

Back in April, I blogged about how KVUE Austin launched Daybreak+ with Rob Evans on KVUE+ right after its morning TV newscast.